10/13/2026
In Greater Hampton Roads, water is part of everyday life. Learning how to stay safe around it should be part of every child's life, too.
Yesterday, we joined the YMCA of South Hampton Roads, the Office of Senator Mamie E. Locke, and Delegate Alex Askew to celebrate a $500,000 investment from the Commonwealth of Virginia that will help approximately 3,500 more children learn essential swimming and water safety skills.
This funding will help our YMCAs expand drowning prevention programs, strengthen partnerships with schools and community organizations, and reach children who might otherwise miss out on these lifesaving opportunities.
As Sen. Locke shared, children need the skills and confidence to recognize danger and respond safely around water, regardless of their ZIP code or their family's circumstances.
Thank you, Sen. Locke and Del. Askew, for championing this investment, and to our partners at the YMCA of South Hampton Roads for working alongside us to make water safety education more accessible to families across our region.
Pictured (L to R) are:
Anthony Walters — President and CEO, YMCA of South Hampton Roads
Adam Klutts — President and CEO, YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas
Senator Mamie Locke — Virginia State Senator
Delegate Alex Askew — Virginia House of Delegates